Spiderwisp
cleome gynandra
Also known as: ["African cabbage","catgut","shungiku"]
Overview
An annual herbaceous plant native to Africa, known for its edible leaves and medicinal properties.
Benefits & Perks
["edible leaves","medicinal use","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Brassicales |
| Family: | Cleomaceae |
| Genus: | Cleome |
| Botanical Name: | Cleome gynandra |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sunny area, or container on a patio
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; can tolerate poor soils but performs best with some fertility.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 4–6 weeks during the growing season; deadheading flowers as they fade.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight if moving from shade; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure adequate ventilation if grown indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing near reflective surfaces that can cause scorching.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal diseases.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; use raised beds if drainage is poor; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C); thrives in tropical and subtropical climates; sensitive to frost.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from cold drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; use a balanced NPK ratio; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings root easily in warm conditions.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting below a leaf node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), humid, and bright but indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix (e.g., perlite and peat moss) or water for initial rooting.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting; use a mild rooting hormone if desired.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–3 weeks; new growth appears in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; cut above a leaf node or bud; remove yellow or damaged leaves.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to prolong blooming.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune in early morning; remove dead or diseased parts; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot if the plant becomes root-bound or outgrows its container; typically every 1–2 years.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, focusing on the root zone; apply until water drains from the bottom; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and aerated.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves) in cold stress; wilting or leaf drop in heat stress; stunted growth in extreme temperatures.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf damage or death; frost will kill the plant.
Solution: Protect from frost with row covers or move indoors; avoid overwatering in cold conditions; provide a warm, sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, flower drop, and reduced vigor; may require more frequent watering in high temperatures.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer label; dilute properly; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCleome gynandra is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of toxicity in felines after ingestion of this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicCleome gynandra is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines after ingestion of this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Humans
Non-toxicCleome gynandra, commonly known as spider plant or African cabbage, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It is often consumed as a leafy green vegetable in various parts of Africa and Asia.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Cleome gynandra edible?
A: Yes, the leaves are edible and commonly consumed in many parts of Africa.
Q: Does Cleome gynandra attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its fragrant flowers.
Q: Is Cleome gynandra drought-tolerant?
A: Yes, it is highly drought-tolerant and thrives in arid conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cleomaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
